Visual Journey
Gombe Stream in Frames
Where Jane Goodall changed our understanding of the natural world — intimate chimp trekking above the shores of Lake Tanganyika.
Gombe Stream is where science met the wild — the smallest national park in Tanzania yet one of the most significant wildlife sanctuaries in the world, forever linked to Jane Goodall's groundbreaking chimpanzee research.
In 1960, a young Jane Goodall arrived at Gombe Stream on the eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika and began what would become the longest-running study of wild animals in history. Here she discovered that chimpanzees make and use tools — overturning what scientists believed distinguished humans from animals. Today, visitors can follow in her footsteps and trek through the forested ridges to spend intimate time with Gombe's wild and habituated chimpanzee communities.
At just 52 km², Gombe is the smallest national park in Tanzania, which makes it profoundly intimate. The dense forest tumbles down steep ridges to the lakeshore, and the chimp encounters here feel personal and deeply moving. Combined with spectacular views over Lake Tanganyika and access via boat from Kigoma, Gombe is one of Africa's most unique wildlife destinations.
Western Tanzania, eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika near Kigoma
June–October for dry weather and optimal chimp trekking
Wild chimpanzee trekking, Jane Goodall research station, forested ridges
2–3 days for a deeply intimate chimp trekking experience
Trek through lush rainforest to encounter habituated chimpanzees, then swim in the crystal waters of Lake Tanganyika.
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One of Africa's most remote parks — massive hippo pools, endless buffalo herds, and zero tourist crowds.
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Discover all three of Tanzania's remote western gems — chimp trekking, hippo pools, and pristine Lake Tanganyika.
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